Sen. Jake Oliveira

Senate, July 10, 2025 -- The committee on Public Health to whom was referred the petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1549) of Patricia D. Jehlen, John F. Keenan, Michael J. Barrett, Patrick M. O'Connor and other members of the Senate for legislation to increase access to disposable menstrual products, report the accompanying bill (Senate, No. 2546).

Maddy summaryHD 867 establishes an advisory board to review and advise on services and policies for people with acquired brain injuries (including traumatic brain injury, stroke, or brain tumors) and their families. The board, composed of 20 members including state agency representatives, individuals with brain injuries, family caregivers, clinicians, and service providers, will meet quarterly to assess needs, monitor access to rehabilitation services, and track implementation of prior recommendations. It must file biennial reports with state leaders detailing progress on improving community-based support services and policy changes. The bill directly affects individuals with acquired brain injuries, their families, and the state agencies responsible for their care.

By Ms. Comerford, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1483) of Joanne M. Comerford, Rebecca L. Rausch, John F. Keenan, Jason M. Lewis and other members of the Senate for legislation relative to menstrual product ingredient disclosure. Public Health.

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits the sale of over-the-counter diet pills and muscle-building supplements to anyone under 18 years old. It requires retail stores to keep these products locked away (behind counters or in locked cases) and check identification for customers who appear under 18. For online sellers, it mandates age verification using government databases, requires an adult signature for delivery, and prohibits shipping to minors. Violations can result in civil penalties up to $1,000.

By Ms. Lovely, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1168) of Joan B. Lovely, Peter J. Durant, Todd M. Smola, David T. Vieira and other members of the General Court for legislation to set rates for transcripts of notes and fees taken at a trial or hearing by a transcriber. The Judiciary.

By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 1237) of Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation to prohibit gambling on political outcomes. The Judiciary.

Maddy summarySD 133 standardizes how courts handle pet custody in divorce or separation cases. It requires courts to prioritize the "best interests of the animal" when deciding pet custody, considering factors like the pet's health, safety, well-being, each party's history with the pet (including time spent and expenses), emotional bonds, and any history of abuse toward animals or humans. The bill establishes clear guidelines for sole or shared custody, including dividing care responsibilities and expenses, and prohibits transferring or disposing of pets without court approval during proceedings. This directly affects divorcing couples with pets by treating companion animals as living beings requiring consideration, not just property.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires homeowners' insurers to include specific coverage for heating oil leaks from residential properties (1-4 unit dwellings) starting January 1, 2024. It mandates minimum $75,000 first-party property coverage for cleanup costs and damage to the homeowner's property, plus $250,000 third-party liability coverage for claims from neighbors affected by the leak. Insurers may exclude coverage only if the homeowner failed to follow maintenance rules (like annual tank inspections), but must provide annual written notice in 16-point font explaining those rules. The policy changes apply to all new or renewed homeowners' insurance policies meeting these coverage minimums.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SD 1215) restructures staffing positions within Massachusetts probate and family court registries. It establishes "first assistant registers" (one per county) and specifies exact numbers of "assistant registers" and "assistant judicial case managers" for each county. The bill eliminates certain existing titles like "administrative deputy assistant registers" while allowing current holders to continue in those roles. It also modifies compensation structures for specific deputy assistant register positions in Suffolk and Middlesex counties. The changes primarily affect court staff management and internal court operations, not public legal procedures or rights.

By Mr. Oliveira, a petition (accompanied by bill, Senate, No. 277) of Jacob R. Oliveira for legislation to regulate the practice and licensure of veterinary technicians. Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure.